Diabetic foot – treatment and prevention

Diabetic foot syndrome: this is a medical definition of tissue destruction, an ulcer or a wound on the foot in people with diabetes, caused in most cases by a restricted blood supply to the tissues (ischaemia) or nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy). Diabetic foot is one of the common complications of diabetes.

To protect the feet of people with diabetes, it is recommended to follow these rules:

• Check your feet every day.
• It is recommended to wash and care for your feet every day; dry the skin well after bathing, taking care to dry between the toes.
• Wear comfortable shoes that fit your foot size. It is recommended to change shoes from time to time.
• Avoid soaking your feet in water that is too hot or too cold.
• It is best not to walk barefoot, to prevent injury or wounds to the feet.
• Cut nails straight across. It is recommended that nail care be done only by a qualified practitioner.
• Wear loose socks without holes.
• It is recommended not to warm your feet in front of a heater or any other heat source, to prevent burns.
• Do not use ointments or preparations without consulting a doctor.
• Consult a doctor before using any treatment whatsoever.

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